Israel “Closer Than Ever” To Hostage Deal With Hamas Amid Ongoing Conflict

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz told Knesset lawmakers on Monday that Israel is “closer than ever” to securing a deal with Hamas for the release of hostages held in Gaza, as reported by Times of Israel.

Katz made the statement during a closed-door Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defence Committee meeting, though details of his remarks were widely reported in the Hebrew press.

“Israel is closer than ever to another hostage deal,” Katz reportedly said, adding, “The less said, the better.”

His statement mirrored earlier remarks from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who emphasized ongoing but discreet efforts to secure the hostages’ release.

Key Developments:

1. Negotiations Progressing: Katz highlighted that discussions are advancing, with Hamas showing “flexibility” while understanding that Israel “will not end the war.”
2. No Open-Ended Ceasefire: Reports indicate the deal excludes a permanent halt to hostilities, a condition previously sought by Hamas but opposed within Netanyahu’s hard-right coalition.
3. US Pressure: Netanyahu spoke with US President-elect Donald Trump, who threatened “unprecedented American firepower” if hostages were not freed before January 20, when Trump assumes office.

Background

• On October 7, Hamas launched a large-scale terror attack on Israel, killing over 1,200 people and taking 250 hostages into Gaza.
• Israel responded with a military offensive targeting Hamas, which has led to the deaths of over 45,000 Palestinians, according to reports.
• Negotiations for a second hostage deal have stalled since November 2023, when a weeklong truce secured the release of 105 hostages.

Hamas Flexibility and Hurdles

Saudi news outlet Asharq News cited an unnamed Hamas leader claiming progress towards a deal “if Netanyahu doesn’t obstruct it.”

• Hamas reportedly proposed a “gradual end to the war” and a “timetable for Israeli withdrawal,” with guarantees from international mediators.

With both sides acknowledging movement, the situation remains delicate, dependent on political will and alignment within Israel’s coalition government.